This is a classic MSX 1 computer, quite similar to the HX-10, except that the shape is different and there are two cartridge slots.
Its special feature seems to be a primitive word processor software built-in ROM. You need a separate Kanji ROM cartridge for it to work.
Does someone know the other differences?
In its native country (Japan), the HX-20 was also named Pasopia IQ to fit in the Pasopia family developped by Toshiba. Pasopia IQ was used for their MSX computers serie.
There was also a HX-21 computer. It had some minor design changes: like red line - instead of green - below brand and model names. But the main difference seems to be a RGB video output for the HX-21.
We need more info about this console ! If you designed, used, or have more info about this system,
please send us pictures or anything you might find useful.
Please consider donating your old computer / videogame system to Old-Computers.com or one of our partners from anywhere in the world (Europe, America, Asia, etc.).
This was the first computer we owned, I was 13 and the whole family had some great times on it. I loved the ROM cartridges which would play as soon as you plugged them in so no waiting for the game to load! A great computer with a great, sturdy keyboard.
Tuesday 24th February 2015
Francis Groves (UK)
je suis en possession d''un appareil Toshiba HX21 et je désire en connaitre la valeur pour le vendre ou le donner
Monday 30th July 2012
brocheton (FRANCE)
NAME
HX-20 / HX-21 (Pasopia IQ)
MANUFACTURER
Toshiba
ORIGIN
Japan
YEAR
1984
BUILT IN SOFTWARE / GAMES
Microsoft Extended Basic (MSX Basic V1.0)
CONTROLLERS
QWERTY mechanical keyboard with 4 function keys, and arrow keys.
CPU
Z80A
SPEED
3,6 Mhz
CO-PROCESSOR
Video Display Processor TMS 9929A
RAM
64 kb
VRAM
16 kb
ROM
32 kb
TEXT MODES
Mode 0 : 40 x 24 Mode 1 : 32 x 24
GRAPHIC MODES
Mode 2 : 256 x 192 with 16 colors (Hires mode) Mode 3 : 64 x 48 with 16 colors (Multi colour mode) 32 sprites
COLORS
16
SOUND
General Instruments AY-3-8910 Programmable Sound Generator 3 channels, 8 octaves
SIZE / WEIGHT
370 x 245 x 60 mm / 2,8 kg
I/O PORTS
2 joystick sockets, 2 cardridge slots, Tape-recorder connector (1200/2400 bauds), Composite video output, Centronics interface, RF video output, Expansion bus, Stereo audio output HX-21 : RGB analog video output
